As the seasons change, it can be a helpful to assess your practices and procedures, making sure that you are cleaning efficiently, productively, and effectively. With more people heading back into offices and workspaces, keeping people safe, prioritizing hygiene, limiting the spread of germs, and avoiding cross-contamination are more important than ever.

Preventing cross-contamination is not a simple task; it comes down to implementing a strategy with series of consistent protocols that include discipline, training, and accountability. Here are some steps that maintenance managers and janitorial staff can take to keep facilities safer and cleaner by limiting cross-contamination this season:

• Create a workflow that starts with low use areas like hallways, moving to high traffic areas like common rooms for cleaning.
• Consider implementing a colour-coded system for tools and equipment to stay in designated areas, such as assigning a different colour for restrooms, kitchens, and general office spaces to keep tools segregated.
• Disinfect tools and change cloths after the cycle is complete so you can begin again knowing you have a fresh start.
• Use proper dilution techniques and manufacturer recommendations to maximize results with appropriate potency
• Focus on the floors. Studies show that 90 percent of the bacteria is transferred from shoes to uncontaminated flooring, so create a floor cleaning protocol, install entrance matting to try and capture germs, and clean or change the mats frequently.
• Maintain tools to keep them functioning their best. For example, laundering microfibres with cotton, over-drying them, or using fabric softeners can damage fires, reducing the capacity to capture and hold contaminants.
• Install hands-free restroom technology to help limit the spread of germs. Include touchless taps, dryers, toilets, and doors to limit germ transmission in restrooms.
• Encourage staff to stay home if they are unwell to try and limit the amount of germs that enter your facility.

Cross-contamination is a risk that can be mitigated with strict, consistent protocols and regular staff training. Keep employees and visitors safe, and your facility clean by implementing a strategy to limit cross-contamination.